The Open Spaces Society, Britain’s oldest national conservation body, has appointed Nicholas Whitsun-Jones as its local correspondent for the former West Dorset District.

Nicholas will be the society’s eyes and ears in the area, keeping a close watch on paths, commons, greens and open spaces.
Nicholas was in the legal profession for 45 years, specialising in planning and environmental law, including rights of way.
Since retirement he has done voluntary work for the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) in Somerset and Devon, and now the Open Spaces Society.

He lives in the country and very much enjoys rural life and country pursuits, including walking and watching wildlife.
Nicholas said: “I am pleased to be appointed as a local correspondent for the Open Spaces Society.
“West Dorset is varied and beautiful, encompassing coastline, farmland, and market towns and villages.
“But I know that its paths and spaces are under threat, because of lack of local authority funding, which leads to neglect and deterioration of paths, and also from development.
“My job is to defend these precious assets as best I can.”
Kate Ashbrook, the society’s general secretary, said: “We are delighted that Nicholas has joined our band of local correspondents.
“He will champion public access and people’s ability to exercise their rights to enjoy paths and open spaces, and will help protect them from hostile development. We shall benefit greatly from Nicholas’s expertise and enthusiasm.”